The true effect of genuine politeness seems to be rather ease than pleasure.

Every man wishes to be wise, and they who cannot be wise are almost always cunning.

Sir, he throws away his money without thought and without merit. I do not call a tree generous that sheds its fruit at every breeze.

Pleasure is very seldom found where it is sought. Our brightest blazes of gladness are commonly kindled by unexpected sparks. The flowers which scatter their odours from time to time in the paths of life, grow up without culture from seeds scattered by chance.

Laws teach us to know when we commit injury and when we suffer it.

Life is not long, and too much of it must not pass in idle deliberation how it shall be spent.

Of all kinds of credulity, the most obstinate is that of party-spirit; of men, who, being numbered, they know not why, in any party, resign the use of their own eyes and ears, and resolve to believe nothing that does not favor those whom they profess to follow.